Is this a good Epirb?

[WESTBURY]

Thinking about picking up an Epirb for this season of boating.
Is this ACR a good one or is it lacking an important feature for the price?

http://www.defender.com/product.jsp?...722&id=1395510

Thanks!

[Bottom Snatcher]

That's not an EPIRB, that's a PLB. It works like an EPIRB, but you will have to hold it while it acquires the satellites. The advantage is it's smaller than EPIRBS, and you can take it with you hiking, skiing, etc. That's what I have on my boat. The battery lasts 5 years.

[Bill McIntyre]

Joe,

I have a PLB rather than an EPIRB, and for the same reasons mentioned by Bottom Snatcher. The EPIRBs are just so much bigger than I couldn't find a place for it in my little boat.

I'm embarrassed to say that I'm not certain that its the same model you are looking at. It justs sit there in a holder waiting to be used, and I don't look at it very often.

[WESTBURY]

Thanks guys.
Do these units (PLB) contact the coast guard if set off?
What does an EPIRB do that a PLB doesnt?
I've tried to read up on these, but sure is confusing.

[NPRelentless]

Originally Posted by WESTBURY

Thanks guys.
Do these units (PLB) contact the coast guard if set off?
What does an EPIRB do that a PLB doesnt?
I've tried to read up on these, but sure is confusing.

West Marine explains it pretty well.
http://www.westmarine.com/webapp/wcs...001/EPIRBs.htm

[Bottom Snatcher]

That PLB will send out a signal to a satellite that will eventually transmit your coordinates to a search and rescue center. But you will need to hold the PLB while it acquires GPS and telecon satellites.

The EPIRB can either launch itself unaided in the water, or you can turn it on and place it in the water and then you forget about it. EPRIBS usually have strobes to help S&R locate you, and I think the batteries last longer too.

Here's a good summary of the difference between and EPIRB and PLB:

http://www.westmarine.com/webapp/wcs...001/EPIRBs.htm


I think it's wise to have at least a PLB. I've been in areas many times when the VHF wasn't being heard.

[Samik]

go for thePLB. they're smaller, more portable, and your more likely to pack it with you. a call for help on 406 will send EVERYONE your way.

ELT's have saved the life of at least 2 pilots I know.

we had one go off by accident while flying last year, amazing how quick your radios come to life. warm fuzzy feeling.

[WESTBURY]

Thanks guys. The WestMarine link was great.

[Nano54]

I have that particular unit, nice compact..... comes with float casing and wrist band...must register and if accidentally activated you must call the given phone number to let them know false or else the world will be after you (I think they reserve the right to fine you) but false activation is pretty hard to do........ Good piece of mind and it is on my wrist if the seas are nasty...

[WESTBURY]

Thanks Brandon
I remember you briefly showing me your PLB last year.
I'm going to pick one up. Can't be too safe.
How's the hot water install going?

[one_drake]

Westbury and Brandon lets get out there this week.... look what i found last week.

[WESTBURY]

I saw that grumpy calico you shot.
Excellent!